May 2, 2022
Approximately every 36 seconds, a person dies from cardiovascular disease in the United States alone. This equated to nearly 300,000 female deaths in 2017. Being aware of your symptoms and risk factors can help to prevent heart disease and attack—but what are the warning signs specific to women? With education from the Cardiovascular Institute of the South, you can better protect your heart from disease! Learn what symptoms to look for and what increases the risk of heart disease in women.
Heart disease is the top cause of death in women, accounting for one in three deaths each year. When it comes to heart disease symptoms in women, many overlap with the signs of disease in men. But, not all symptoms are the same from male to female. In women, heart disease, heart attack, or a blocked artery can present themselves with more subtle symptoms including:
These symptoms can occur when sleeping or be exacerbated due to stress. And in some cases, you may not notice symptoms of an attack at all. This is referred to as a silent heart attack in which a temporary blockage damages the heart. If you suspect you are having a heart attack, seek medical assistance immediately.
Unfortunately, not every symptom is easy to notice. For female heart screenings, visit the Cardiovascular Institute of the South! Our cardiologists utilize a variety of testing services ranging from electrocardiograms to nuclear imaging, carotid ultrasounds, and more. These tests help to evaluate blood flow, heart rhythm, and possible blockages to determine your level of risk and prevent future complications.
Several traditional and untraditional signs may indicate your risk for heart disease. Diabetes, poor diet, smoking, and physical inactivity can all increase a woman’s chance of developing heart disease. But, other risk factors may catch you by surprise. Low levels of estrogen following menopause, high blood pressure during pregnancy, and even depression may lead to heart disease. And remember—heart disease can affect women of all ages and nationalities. In fact, one in 16 women over the age of 20 have coronary heart disease. To prevent your heart disease risks, put healthy practices in motion.
While heart disease is common in women, you can do your part to protect your health. And with the professionals at the Cardiovascular Institute of the South, we can help you spot warning signs and prevent serious health events.
The Cardiovascular Institute of the South is dedicated to helping fight heart disease in men and women. With diagnostic services, educational resources, and more, our doctors help patients to lower their risk factors and protect their hearts from damage. If you are interested in learning more about heart disease in women, request information from us today! We provide woman-focused screenings and education to help you learn the preventative information you need. Or if you would like to schedule an appointment with one of our cardiologists, reach out to your nearest clinic location. With some awareness and the right practices, you can improve your outcomes and support a healthier heart!